HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013-09-11 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes RegularMINUTES OF THE
REGULAR MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
CITY OF EDINA, MINNESOTA
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
7:00 PM
I. CALL TO ORDER
II. ROLL CALL
Answering the roll call were: Scherer, Schroeder, Potts, Fischer, Platteter, Forrest Grabiel
Absent from the roll: Carr, Kilberg
III. APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
Chair Staunton noted the change in Agenda order; Item VII. A. Lot Division will be heard first.
Commissioner Platteter moved approval of the meeting Agenda with the change. Commissioner
Scherer seconded the motion. All voted aye; motion carried.
IV. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Commissioner Potts Moved approval of the August 28, 2013, meeting minutes. Commissioner
Scherer seconded the motion. All voted aye; motion carried.
V. COMMUNITY COMMENT
Chair Staunton asked if anyone would like to speak; being none, Commissioner Potts moved to close
community comment. Commissioner Fischer seconded the motion. All voted aye; public comment
closed.
VI. REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
A. Lot Division — 5100 Mirror Lakes Drive /Interlachen Country Club
Planner Presentation
Planner Teague reported that Michael Gorman is requesting to shift the existing lot line that
divides his property at 5100 Mirror Lakes Drive and the Interlachen Country Club property. The
purpose of the request is to shift the rear lot line of the Gorman property into the golf course
property to match a fence line that was installed by the previous owner of 5100 Mirror Lakes
Drive.
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Teague concluded that staff recommends that the City Council approve the Lot Division of 5100
Mirror Lakes Drive and the Interlachen Golf Course subject to the following findings: The
proposed lot line adjustment does not create a new lot; the division legally establishes the lot
line that has been used in practice as a result of the previous property owner's installation of a
fence on the golf course property; and the resulting lots are still larger than most lots in the
area.
Motion
Commissioner Grabiel moved to recommend lot division approval based on staff findings.
Commissioner Fischer seconded the motion. All voted aye; motion carried.
VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Variance. Casey Holley. 5616 Woodcrest Drive, Edina, MN
Planner Presentation
Planner Aaker reported that the subject property is located on the west side of Woodcrest
Drive consisting of a 2 story walk -out home with an attached two car garage. The home backs
up to a pond and provides a 23 foot setback from the water body. The zoning ordinance
requires a minimum 50 foot setback from naturally occurring lakes, ponds and streams. The
existing home is nonconforming and is 27 feet into the required setback. Over three fourths of
the home is within the nonconforming pond setback.
Continuing, Aaker explained that the property owners would like to expand the second floor to
include two new Bedrooms. The second floor addition will match the existing nonconforming
setback of the back wall of the home. There is no opportunity for a first floor expansion due to
lot coverage requirements and the living room on the front side of the home has a vaulted
ceiling and is not conducive to a second floor expansion. The zoning ordinance requires a
minimum 50 foot setback for structures near a pond. The ordinance has been amended as
required by the Department of Natural resources over the years with increased setbacks
required from all water bodies, regardless of where the existing structure is located. The City of
Edina retains the authority to process variances from water body setbacks.
Planner Aaker noted the proposed second story addition complies with all of the setback and
height requirements with the exception of the existing nonconforming setback from the
pond. The only opportunity for expansion of the home is to the second floor.
Planner Aaker concluded that staff recommends that the Planning Commission approve the
variance. Approval is based on the following findings:
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The proposed use of the property is reasonable; as it slightly alters existing conditions
without reducing setback or impacting the surrounding neighbors.
The imposed setback and existing house location do not provide opportunity for an
increase in second floor area
• The original placement of the home closer to the pond than currently allowed prohibits
expansion on the second floor without the benefit of a variance
Approval of the variance is also subject to the following condition:
1) Subject to staff approval, the site must be developed and maintained in substantial
conformance with the following plans, unless modified by the conditions below:
Appearing for the Applicant
Mr. and Mrs. Holley
Applicant Presentation
Mr. Holley addressed the Commission and informed them they purchased their home two years
ago and at that time they weren't aware of the setback requirement from the pond and they
were already non - conforming. Mrs. Holley noted that they are staying within the existing
footprint.
Discussion
Commissioner Platteter asked the applicants if they "heard" any objections or concerns from
immediate neighborhoods. Mrs. Holley responded that to date they haven't received any
negative comments from neighbors.
Public Hearing
Chair Staunton asked if anyone from the audience would like to speak to the issue; being none
Commissioner Scherer moved to close the public hearing. Commissioner Platteter seconded
the motion. All voted aye; public hearing closed.
Further Discussion and Motion
Commissioner Potts commented after reviewing the building plans and aerial it appears that
the subject house is the same distance from the water as neighboring properties. Potts pointed
out the applicant is building on top of the existing house, not adding to the footprint,
concluding that he finds the request reasonable and can support the variance as presented.
Commissioner Fischer stated he agrees with Commissioners Potts comments, adding in his
opinion the hardship is very clear. Without variance approval there would virtually be no
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opportunity for the property owners to increase the square footage of their home without that
approval.
Motion
Commissioner Fischer moved variance approval based on staff findings, subject to the staff
conditions and noting without the aid of a variance there is no opportunity for the property
owner to increase the size of their home. Commissioner Potts seconded the motion. All
voted aye; motion carried.
B. Preliminary Plat. Scott Busyn. 6609 Blackfoot Pass, Edina, MN
Planner Presentation
Planner Teague informed the Commission Great Neighborhood Homes Inc. on behalf of
Douglas Johnson is proposing to subdivide the property at 6609 Blackfoot Pass into two lots.
The existing home would be torn down, and two new homes built on the new lots. The new
home on Lot 1 would be located generally where the existing home is located. The home on Lot
2, would be located toward the street in an area away from the adjacent home to the south, to
avoid large Oak trees and some of the steeper slopes on the site.
To accommodate the request the following is required:
1. A subdivision;
2. Front yard setback variance from 100 feet to 45 feet for proposed Lot 2.
Teague explained that both lots would gain access off Blackfoot Pass. Within this neighborhood,
the median lot area is 27,131 square feet, median lot depth is 183 feet, and the median lot
width is 146 feet. The new lots would meet the median width, depth, and lot size
requirements. A new home could be built on Lot 2 without the need for a variance, however, in
doing so some of the best trees on the site would be removed (large Oak trees); more slopes
would be disturbed, and the home would be located much closer to the existing home at 6705
Cheyenne Trail
Planner Teague concluded that staff recommends that the City Council approve the proposed
two lot subdivision of 6609 Blackfoot Pass with a Front Yard Setback variance for Lot 2 from 100
feet to 45 feet from Blackfoot Pass and Cheyenne Trail based on the following findings:
1. The proposed Plat meets all required standards and ordinances for a subdivision.
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2. The subdivision would meet the neighborhood medians for lot width and depth and
area.
3. The proposal meets the required standards for a variance, because:
a. The practical difficult unique to the property is caused by the large mature Oak
trees and slopes on the east half of Lot 2 where a code compliant building pad
would be located. These are natural conditions, not caused by property owner.
b. The requested variances are reasonable in the context of the immediate
neighborhood. There are two homes with similar front yard setbacks at 6621 and
6624 Cheyenne Trail.
C. There is 18 -20 feet of green space in the right -of -way of Cheyenne Trail, which
would result in a 65 -foot setback from the edge of the paved roadway.
d. The variance results in the saving of mature Oak trees, protection of slopes, and
moves the home further away from the existing home at 6705 Cheyenne Trail.
Approval is also subject to the following conditions:
1. The city must approve the final plat within one year of preliminary approval or receive a
written application for a time extension or the preliminary approval will be void.
2. Prior to issuance of a building permit, the following items must be submitted:
a. If required, submit evidence of Nine Mile Watershed District approval. The City
may require revisions to the preliminary plat to meet the district's requirements.
b. A curb -cut permit must be obtained from the Edina Engineering department.
C. Utility hook -ups are subject to review of the city engineer.
d. Grading and drainage plans specific to any proposed house would be reviewed at
the time of building permit, and shall be subject to review and approval of the
city engineer. Drainage from any new home, garage or driveway would have to
be directed to the street.
3. Any new home on Lot 2 would be limited to a ridge line height of 35 feet.
4. A 10 -foot conservation easement must be established along the lot lines to preserve the
vegetation areas along the streets and along the north and south lot lines.
5. A slope and tree conservation easement must be placed over the large Oak trees and
slope areas to be preserved by moving the home toward the street.
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Appearing for the Applicant
Scott Busyn, Great Neighborhood Homes
Discussion
Chair Grabiel asked if the proposed subdivision conforms to the subdivision ordinance. Planner
Teague responded in the affirmative. Commissioner Grabiel pointed out the slopes on the
property and asked if City ordinance addresses slopes. Planner Teague responded City
ordinance addresses slopes in excess of 18 %. Teague noted this site contains steep slopes;
however, it meets the ordinance pertaining to slopes.
Commissioner Fischer stated he was struck by the diagram indicating the 500 -foot
neighborhood, adding in his opinion the "500 -foot neighborhood" appears to contain two
completely different neighborhoods. Fischer stated he struggles with the difference between
these two different neighborhoods adding to him this subdivision feels wrong.
Applicant Presentation
Scott Busyn addressed the Commission acknowledging that Indian Hills is a very unique
neighborhood. Busyn added he believes what he has presented works best with the sloped
topography of the lot. Busyn explained that he sent a letter to all the homeowners within the
500 -foot neighborhood informing them of the proposed subdivision and also held a
neighborhood meeting at the site on August 8th. Busyn said the neighborhood meeting was
attended by a number of the adjacent neighbors. Busyn reported as a result of that meeting he
is proposing a 10 -foot conservation easement to ensure that the wooded look of the property
remains.
Concluding, Busyn said he was open to questions or any ideas the Commission may have on this
proposal.
Discussion
Commissioner Forrest asked Mr. Busyn how he plans on implementing the conservation
easement. Busyn responded he would work with the City Forrester on identifying the trees
that need to be saved within the 10 -foot conservation easement. Planner Teague added that
the conservation easement could be handled similar to the easement that was placed on the
Acres DuBois plat. If approved the easement would be recorded with the plat. Commissioner
Forrest noted that this issue was previously tabled and questioned the reason. Mr. Busyn
responded that he tabled the subdivision to work out and add the conservation easement to
the proposal.
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Commissioner Platteter referred to the grove of oak trees on Lot 2 and asked if the
conservation easement would be expanded to capture those oaks. Mr. Busyn responded that
Planner Teague suggested that the conservation easement includes those trees; however,
much depends on final house placement; with or without variance. Neighbors also indicated
they would like to retain the stone retaining wall on the south end of Blackfoot Pass and
Cheyenne Trail.
Commissioner Scherer noted the Commission is in receipt of letters from neighbors opposing
the project and asked Mr. Busyn if during the neighborhood meeting neighbors indicated which
building pad location they preferred on Lot 2. Mr. Busyn responded that neighbors indicated
they want the site to retain its forested look and maintain privacy. Busyn stated he is open to
each option and would do whatever the Commission suggests with regard to Lot 2.
A discussion ensued on the sites steep slopes, grading, retaining walls and drainage with
Commissioners acknowledging this site is unique because of the slopes and the natural wooded
nature of the area. Commissioners stressed if approved careful attention needs to be paid to
drainage to ensure site disruption doesn't negatively impact the site or the surrounding
neighbors.
Chair Staunton opened the public hearing.
Public Hearing
The following residents addressed the Commission and spoke in opposition to the request by
Great Neighborhood Homes to subdivide 6609 Blackfoot Pass into two (2) single dwelling unit
lots.
T. Dev, 6804 Cheyenne Trail, Edina, MN
Charles and Liberta Ledder, 6709 Cheyenne Trail, Edina, MN
Tim Keane, attorney representing residents of Indian Hills
David Evinger, 4 Merilane, Edina, MN
James Schwender, 6700 Cheyenne Trail, Edina, MN
Pat Kreuziger, 6705 Cheyenne Trail, Edina, MN
William Lund, 6308 Indian Hills Road, Edina, MN
David Frauenshuh, 6401 Indian Hills Road, Edina, MN
Mary Swenson, 6617 Cheyenne Trail, Edina, MN
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Residents that testified expressed the following:
• Residents indicated they purchased their homes in the Indian Hills neighborhood for the
natural wooded nature of the area, its larger lots, winding roads and privacy.
• Residents of the area expressed the opinion that the "500 -foot neighborhood"
established by ordinance captures two completely different neighborhoods; and does
not adhere to the original Indian Hills plat. The smaller residential suburban lots (east of
the subject site) were included in the calculations skewing the outcome and negatively
impacting the character of the area.
• The Planning Commission has the discretion to deny the preliminary plat based on
character.
• The loss of existing vegetation and the disruption of the steep slopes would change the
character of the lot and neighborhood even with the variance option on Lot 2.
• Residents acknowledged the two building pad options for Lot 2; one conforming and
one requiring a variance, reiterating disruption would occur regardless.
• To provide new building pads there is the potential for construction of high retaining
walls and also the potential for drainage problems as a result of building pad placement
and grading of the site.
• Vehicle and pedestrian safety is important pointing out the streets in the area are
winding and the street also curves along the subject site.
• Driveway placement is a concern; again because of the safety issue.
Chair Staunton asked if anyone else would like to speak to the issue; being none, Commissioner
Potts moved to close the public hearing. Commissioner Platteter seconded the motion. All
voted aye; motion to close the public hearing approved.
Mr. Busyn addressed the Commission and explained in providing two building pad locations for
Lot 2 they felt it would make things better and create a better plat. Busyn said their goal is to
pull the building pads away from the lot lines to ensure privacy and accommodate the proposed
conservation strip. Continuing, Busyn reported that extensive soil testing was done to ensure
that any redevelopment would improve the site not negatively impact it. Concluding, Busyn
stated all testing supported the position that the site can accommodate two building pads.
Commissioner Scherer asked Planner Teague to clarify the action for this proposal. Planner
Teague responded the Commission can recommend denial or approval, adding if the
Commission recommends approval they need to stipulate what option they want for Lot 2;
variance or no variance.
Commissioner Potts stated in his opinion due to multiple factors the subject site should remain
one lot. Potts agreed with the observation that the Indian Hills neighborhood is different from
the neighborhood to its east. Potts noted to redevelop this site too much disruption would
occur. Vegetation would be loss and the site would require extensive grading and retaining
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walls. Potts concluded as previously mentioned if approved the change to neighborhood
character would be dramatic.
Commissioner Grabiel pointed out the project as submitted meets subdivision ordinance
requirements. Grabiel said he also understands the property owners desire to maximize the
real estate value of his property. With respect to trees it is difficult because at this time the City
of Edina doesn't have a tree ordinance. Continuing, Grabiel acknowledged that the character of
the 500 -foot neighborhood is varied. Concluding, Grabiel said from the plans presented it
appears Mr. Busyn attempted to mitigate the issues of drainage, tree loss etc. Grabiel said he
also appreciates Mr. Busyn limiting building height to 35 -feet.
Commissioner Scherer stated this is a tough issue for the Commission; however, she continues
to have concerns about drainage, tree loss, driveway safety, etc. Scherer said taking all things
into consideration that she cannot support the request as submitted.
Commissioner Schroeder asked Planner Teague if the City defines neighborhood character.
Planner Teague responded City ordinance doesn't define neighborhood character. Continuing,
Schroeder said specific factors are unique to Indian Hills and if the Commission recommends
approval of this request the essential character of Indian Hills would change.
Commissioner Forrest acknowledged she has been going back and forth with this proposal. She
stated she agrees the City doesn't define neighborhood character; however, would the "sense"
of place be compromised if approved. Forrest added she agrees that Mr. Busyn has given a lot
of thought to this project; adding she could support the proposal with specific conditions.
Concluding, Forrest said to would like to see more creativity in building plans.
Commissioner Fischer said when he views this project it appears to him that it's one lot for one
structure. Fischer did acknowledge that neighborhood character can be changed one parcel at
a time; however, the builder has an excellent reputation and he would hate to take a risk with
another builder.
Motion
Commissioner Grabiel moved to recommend preliminary plat approval based on staff findings
and subject to staff conditions.
Motion failed for lack of second.
Commissioner Schroeder moved to recommend denial of the preliminary plat based on the
findings that if approved the subdivision would render the lot out of character with the
neighborhood. Commissioner Scherer seconded the motion. Ayes; Scherer, Schroeder, Potts,
Fischer, Platteter, Forrest. Nay, Grabiel, Staunton. Motion to deny carried 6 -2.
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C. Preliminary Plat. John Adams on behalf of Ted E. Warner, 5 Merilane, Edina, MN
Planner Presentation
Planned Teague reported that John Adams, on behalf of property owner Ted Warner is
proposing to subdivide the property at 5 Merilane into three lots. The existing home is located
in the middle of the property, and would remain as proposed. A new driveway would be
constructed to serve the existing home, as the current driveway would be located on proposed
Lot 3. The existing driveway would be used for access to a new home on Lot 3. To
accommodate the request the following is required: Preliminary & Final Plat.
Continuing, Teague explained that the proposal meets all minimum lot size requirements.
Within this neighborhood, the median lot area is 48,249 square.feet, median lot depth is 277
feet, and the median lot width is 192. All three lots would gain access off Merilane.
Planner Teague concluded that because the proposed subdivision meets all of Edina's Zoning
Ordinance requirements; recommend that the City Council approve the proposed three lot
subdivision of 5 Merilane.
Approval is based on the following findings:
1. The proposal meets all the required standards and ordinances for a subdivision.
2. The applicant has located the driveways and home to minimize tree and slope
disturbance.
Approval is also subject to the following conditions:
1. The City must approve the final plat within one year of preliminary approval or receive a
written application for a time extension or the preliminary approval will be void.
2. Park dedication fee of $10,000 must be paid prior to release of the final plat.
3. Prior to issuance of a building permit, the following items must be submitted:
a. Submit evidence of a Minnehaha Creek Watershed District approval. The City
may require revisions to the preliminary plat to meet the district's requirements.
b. Curb -cut permits must be obtained from the Edina engineering department.
Driveway plans must be consistent with the proposed grading plan to preserve
as many trees as possible.
C. A grading plan subject to review and approval of the city engineer.
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d. A construction management plan will be required for the construction of the
new homes.
e. Utility hook -ups are subject to review of the city engineer.
Appearing for the Applicant
John Adams, Coldwell Banker
Applicant Presentation
John Adams introduced Ted Warner property owner and Mark Gronberg Engineer.
Mr. Adams informed the Commission the current Warner house will remain and the intent is to
build new homes on Lots 1 and 3. Adams told the Commission the Warner family hired Kramer
to custom design and build the new homes. Adams noted that as proposed the subdivision
meets ordinance requirements. He also reported he met with adjoining neighbors to discuss
the proposed plat. Continuing, Adams said to accommodate the new building pads little
grading would occur, attention would be paid to driveway placement and the existing
vegetation would be retained where possible. Concluding, Adams asked the Commission for
their support.
Ted Warner addressed the Commission and explained that he grew up in the house, adding the
family takes this subdivision very seriously and believes the layout of the proposed lots would
work. This subdivision would also provide them the opportunity to remain in the neighborhood.
Chair Staunton opened the public hearing.
Public Hearing
The following residents addressed the Commission and spoke in opposition to the request by
John Adams on behalf of Ted Warner to subdivide 5 Merilane into three (3) single dwelling unit
lots.
Mark Genau, 6 Merilane, Edina, MN
Dave Evinger, 4 Merilane, Edina, MN
James Ganley, 4704 Merilane, Edina, MN
Mike Callan, 10 Merilane, Edina, MN
Mary Pohlad, 7 Merilane, Edina, MN
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Sandy Genau, 6 Merilane, Edina, MN
Pat Maloney, 5804 Mait Lane, Edina, MN
Phil Broat, 4820 Rolling Green Parkway, Edina, MN
Tom Owens, representing Ms. Pohlad, 7 Merilane, Edina, MN
Residents that testified expressed the following:
• The plat as presented creates three lots; however, to comply with Zoning Ordinance
requirements the three building pads have been clustered at the top of the hill virtually
"cramming" the new homes on top of the existing homes at 6 and 7 Merilane.
• The proposal as submitted negatively impacts the character of the Rolling Green
neighborhood. If subdivided to comply with the Zoning Ordinance there will be five
homes in close proximity to each other. Rolling Green is not a "high- density"
neighborhood.
• Residents purchased their homes in Rolling Green for the large lots and generous
spacing between homes. This subdivision would compromise those standards.
• If approved to comply with the Zoning Ordinance these three new homes wouldn't have
rear yards.
• The Commission has the discretion to deny the plat based on character and symmetry of
the neighborhood.
• There is the concern if the three lot subdivision is approved that slowly the
neighborhood "average" will change piece by piece with lots becoming smaller and
smaller over time.
• Consider a two lot subdivision; not three. Consider variance for house placement.
• There is an issue of vehicle and pedestrian safety. The subject lot is curved; a reversed
pie and a traffic study should be conducted.
Charlie Carpenter, attorney representing the applicant addressed the Commission and stated
the plat as depicted meets the subdivision ordinance requirements and in their opinion makes
sense. Carpenter also noted that the applicant has indicated they would minimize any
disruption to the site through driveway placement and the retention of existing vegetation.
Chair Staunton asked if anyone else would like to speak to the issue; being none Commissioner
Platteter moved to close the public hearing. Commissioner Fischer seconded the motion. All
voted aye; motion carried.
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Discussion
Chair Staunton suggested that the Commission meet with the City Attorney regarding
subdivisions to clarify what action the Commission can take when a plat technically meets
Ordinance requirements. Planner Teague said he would speak with the City Attorney, Roger
Knutson and set up a work session to discuss subdivision and other planning issues.
Commissioner Schroeder stated it appears to him that this subdivision feels more like in -fill
development, adding if approved there will be a distinct change in this neighborhood.
Commissioner Grabiel said the applicant has indicated they would do their best to retain the
vegetation along Merilane and minimize driveway placement, adding he can support the
subdivision request as submitted.
Motion
Commissioner Grabiel moved to recommend preliminary plat approval for 5 Merilane based
on staff findings and subject to staff conditions.
Motion failed for lack of second.
Discussion
Commissioner Scherer stated it's very obvious to her that the subdivision as presented creates
three pie shaped lots that without the relief of a variance from the Zoning Ordinance would
cluster three homes at the top of the hill. Scherer reiterated the clustering of homes bothers
her; however, a variance may mitigate that issue.
Commissioner Fischer stated he struggles with this request, adding the plat as presented
complies with the Ordinance and provides three buildable lots, adding the applicant has
indicated from the street that they intend to minimize driveway placement and preserve trees
and vegetation along the street. Fischer did acknowledge this would be a change.
Motion
Commissioner Schroeder moved to recommend denial of the preliminary plat for 5 Merilane
based on the finding that the subdivision as proposed would change the character and
symmetry of the Rolling Green neighborhood, and in particular denial is based on changes to
the character and symmetry that would occur as the result of new house placement in close
proximity to existing homes. Commissioner Scherer seconded the motion.
A discussion occurred on the character and symmetry of the Rolling Green neighborhood. It
was pointed out that the lots on the west side of Merilane are platted completely different
from the lots to the east. It was further noted that spacing between the homes on the west
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side of Merilane is generous; however, if the subdivision is approved and house placement
occurs as presented the new homes on the east side of Merilane would be clustered together
at the top in close proximity to each other and the existing homes on Lots 6 and 7 Merilane-
completely out of character with the neighborhood.
The discussion continued with Commissioners acknowledging that the presented preliminary
plat meets Subdivision Ordinance requirements for area, width and depth and if the subdivision
were approved it doesn't necessarily mean the houses would be built as depicted. The Zoning
Ordinance provides the opportunity through the variance process to be flexible with house
placement.
It was further noted that the applicant has the option of withdrawing the request to revise the
plat to include front yard setback variance options or the Commission can vote on the motion.
Mr. Adams in response to the discussion on character and symmetry and front yard
setback /house placement stated that the reason the new homes are positioned with such deep
front yard setbacks is to match the front yard setbacks established by the neighboring
properties. This is a requirement of the Zoning Ordinance.
Ayes; Scherer, Schroeder, Potts. Nays; Fischer, Platteter, Forrest, Grabiel, Staunton. Motion
failed.5 -3.
VIII. CORRESPONDENCE AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Chair Staunton acknowledged back of packet materials.
IX. CHAIR AND COMMISSION COMMENTS
Chair Staunton welcomed Mike Fischer back to the Commission. Staunton explained the City
Council appointed Mike Fischer to replace Commissioner Carpenter who recently resigned from
the Commission.
Chair Staunton commented that staff is continuing their work on finalizing the Commissions
2014 Work Plan.
Continuing, Staunton reiterated that staff is also working on setting dates for a work session
with Roger Knutson, City Attorney and Cindy Larson, Redevelopment Coordinator. Planner
Teague responded he would work on scheduling work sessions; adding he believes October Stn
would work well for Cindy Larson. Commissioner Fischer said in the work session with Roger
Knutson he would like to discuss and ask for clarification on the 500 -foot neighborhood
requirement previously mentioned by Chair Staunton. Questioning if the 500 -foot
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neighborhood establishes the neighborhood or can the Commission rely solely on character and
symmetry. Commissioner Potts said he would like Cindy Larson to provide the Commission
with examples of what she's found in the field. Chair Staunton told Commissioners if they have
any questions for Roger or Cindy to e-mail those questions to Planner Teague prior to the work
sessions.
Commissioner Platteter informed the Commission he, along with Commissioner Carr attended
their first Living Streets meeting.
Commissioner Grabiel commented in reference to the Commission's action on the previous
subdivision that in his opinion the Commission didn't send a clear message to the Council on
where the Commission stands.
Chair Staunton said the Commission could discuss subdivision at the work session with Roger
Knutson.
X. STAFF COMMENTS
Planner Teague apprised the Commission that the City Council denied the two -lot subdivision
request for the Shanight property at 5612 Tracy Avenue; however at their last meeting they
referred the subdivision request back to the Commission for re- review. Council further
directed the applicant to prepare another plat reflecting their objection of a shared driveway
for both lots. Teague stated he believes the Commission will hear this request at their second
meeting in October.
XI. ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Scherer moved to adjourn; Commissioner Platteter seconded the motion. All
voted aye; meeting adjourned at 9:45 PM
Jac/de tW0Off4="at
Respectfully submitted
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